AI and The Arts & Crafts Revival

AI is everywhere. Even the least tech-savvy people in your life are using it. To some, it's a helpful tool to bring ideas to life. But to others, it's a real threat against their livelihoods.

As mass production and AI design become more dominant, the desire for imperfection and human touch will only grow stronger.

This mirrors past cultural responses to industrialization, particularly the Arts and Crafts movement that emerged in reaction to the Industrial Revolution.

Might we be entering a new era where handmade, customized, and imperfect creations become the most sought-after forms of expression?

I think...YES.

So, here's my prediction: In an era where AI is developing at an unprecedented rate, a resurgence of DIY, subculture aesthetics, and handmade craftsmanship will continue to rise.

I seriously think that people will start putting typos in their work on purpose! Little imperfections to say, "See, this was made by a human being".

History Repeats Itself

The Industrial Revolution of the 18th and 19th centuries brought technological advancements, but it also led to the mass production of products which caused them to lack individuality.

In response, the Arts and Crafts movement was born. It was all about making things by hand, using quality materials, and maintaining artistic integrity.

Artists like William Morris chose to resist soulless factory-made products.

"Apart from the desire to produce beautiful things, the leading passion of my life has been and is hatred of modern civilization."

Whereas Charles Robert Ashby didn’t completely reject technology but believed it should serve artists rather than replace them. "We do not reject the machine. We welcome it. But we would desire to see it mastered."

AI is a new kind of industrial revolution. Design, writing, video, music, and images, which once took years to perfect and countless hours to create, can now be generated in seconds with one click of a button.

This technology is powerful, no doubt. But it's creating a world that feels eerily...slick and mechanic. Devoid of personality. Lacking SOUL.

Much like the 19th century response to industrialization, we are witnessing a counter-movement, a revival of hands-on creativity and personalization!!

The Rise of Subculture Aesthetics and DIY

Subcultures have always been about rebelling against the mainstream, against authority, and against perfection. As AI generated content floods the internet, the DIY ethos is making a huge comeback.

People are embracing hand drawn zines, screen printed clothing, imperfect art, and self-published writing as a rejection of AI’s soulless feel.

The more AI refines its ability to generate photorealism and polished graphic design, the more valuable raw, gritty, and handmade aesthetics become.

People who can create with their hands, whether through printmaking, woodworking, or textiles, are going to be more valued than ever.

Of course, there will be a portion of the economy that pays for and profits from AI, but there will be another part of the economy that that pays for and profits from human-made arts.

The Future of Craftsmanship

Throughout history, technological advancements have led to the disappearance of countless crafts.

Before digital printing and Photoshop, movie studios hired artists to hand-paint posters.

Letterpress printing, which was the preferred printing method for centuries, was abandoned in favor of digital printing by the late 20th century.

Even though The Arts and Crafts movement fought to preserve handcrafted furniture, mass production won out. By the 1920s, hand-carved details gave way to machine-cut patterns, and by the mid-century, plywood and plastic replaced solid wood.

It’s not too late to reclaim these nearly-forgotten skills. In an age where AI and automation are taking over, choosing to learn and practice a traditional craft is an act of rebellion and preservation!

We've already seen the resurgence of Victorian styles - from the trending paint colors to homeowners adding ornate trims to our walls. That's telling me that people are yearning for handmade details more than ever.

Since AI images can depict furniture and decor that haven't been made before, it will take artisans and craftsmen to bring those images to life in a real way.

Will we see a resurgence in Victorian-esque architecture?? One can only hope!! (I'm crossing every finger and toe I have to make that happen).

What does this mean for brands?

AI is making it easier than ever for brands to generate content in seconds. From blog posts to social media captions, even entire ad campaigns. But the truth is, it’s making brands all sound and feel really freaking similar. I can instantly tell when a brand has used AI to write their captions or product descriptions.

Your customers will start to notice the lack of originality too.

I have a client that constantly sends me AI generated graphics as inspiration so that I can remake them into something usable and higher quality. The generated graphics get better and better with every passing day. For small businesses with small budgets, I can see why it's so tempting.

But, on the other hand, brands that embrace a handmade, human-centered approach are going to be the one's that stand out in a sea of AI generation.

Here are some ways brands can lean into this Arts & Crafts Revival:

Emphasize Craftsmanship: Whether it’s physical products or digital services, showcasing the handmade elements in your process will add a touch of authenticity.

Use Imperfection to Your Advantage: Brands that embrace the beauty of raw, organic, or slightly imperfect design elements create a more personal connection with their audience.

Create Limited Editions: In a world of mass production, scarcity and uniqueness become valuable. Hand-numbered editions, custom pieces, or collaborations with artists can create exclusivity and increase demand.

Tell the Human Story: AI lacks true personality. If you think about it, AI is like that chick that constantly tries to copy you but can never get it quite right. So, a brand’s story, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and personal touches will make a brand feel more alive and genuine.

Encourage DIY & Community Involvement: Brands that involve their audience in the creative process can build a sense of connection and community.

The Future is Human

AI is changing the world, but it won’t replace the human desire for authenticity and individuality. If history has taught us anything, it’s that technological revolutions often spark creative resistance.

I've been collecting fantasy and faerie art for about a decade now. Original pieces feel more "real" than prints do. It's as though they have a soul, a life of their own. It's something that AI images can never replicate.

I think that's why I love practical effects in movies over CGI, too. Something about it feels more charming, more real.

So, while I'm not demonizing AI, I am cautious.

I often ask myself how I can embrace handmade touches in my own brand - especially as a digital service provider.

I send out thank you gifts to each branding client that includes a handwritten note.

I try to take my own reference photos when I can (why are there 100 pictures of my hand holding an apple in my phone gallery???).

And I take pen to paper as often as possible when designing brands.

Currently? I'm envisioning sculpting a mini theatre out of thrifted items and using video effects to have a mini-me walk across it for brand presentations. It's going to be fun (and I hope it looks great too!)

I encourage you to pick up your tools, embrace imperfection, and make something REAL!!

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